In what ways can we rely on God's power to perform "signs" in our lives? Core Verse “while You stretch out Your hand to heal and signs and wonders are performed through the name of Your holy servant Jesus.” (Acts 4:30) The Power Behind Every Sign • God Himself stretches out His hand; we do not manufacture signs. • The name of Jesus is the channel; no other authority is needed. • The early church expected visible interventions (Acts 2:43; 5:12). Ways We Rely on God’s Power for Signs Today • Bold, Scripture-anchored prayer – “Whatever you ask in My name, that will I do.” (John 14:13) – Ask specifically for God’s glory, not self-promotion (James 4:3). • Faith that rests on God’s character – “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” (Hebrews 13:8) – Confidence grows by remembering past deliverances (Psalm 77:11-14). • Obedient proclamation of the gospel – Signs often accompany the Word (Mark 16:20). – Align your message with Scripture; God confirms His truth, not personal opinions. • Humble dependence on the Holy Spirit – “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you.” (Acts 1:8) – Yield daily; signs flow from Spirit-filled living, not human effort. • Perseverance amid opposition – The context of Acts 4 is persecution. Stand firm; God shows His might when His people are pressured (2 Chronicles 16:9). • Community agreement – The church prayed “with one accord” (Acts 4:24). Seek united faith; corporate prayer invites corporate signs. Guardrails When Seeking Signs • Test every manifestation by Scripture (1 John 4:1). • Exalt Christ, not the miracle (Acts 3:12-13). • Submit to legitimate church oversight (Hebrews 13:17). • Accept God’s sovereignty—He decides when and how (Daniel 4:35). Living Expectantly Keep hearts open, hands clean, and eyes fixed on Jesus. The same God who stretched out His hand in Acts still delights to display His glory through unmistakable signs for all who rely on Him. |
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